New Director of Development Named
Chris Brnjas (BA 2012, MTS 2014), a double Grebel alum, is returning to campus as the new Director of Development at Conrad Grebel University College at the University of Waterloo. Beginning in mid-October, Chris will lead fundraising and alumni relations for Grebel by building relationships through donor engagement, major gift strategy, planned giving, and alumni events.
"Chris brings a great combination of professional experience and first-hand knowledge of Grebel,” announced President Marcus Shantz. “He understands that his role is more than fundraising – it's about connecting people to community, and helping that community to thrive and grow. I'm sure he will bring a strong collaborative spirit to his work with all stakeholders in the Grebel community."
With a BA in Peace and Conflict Studies and a Master of Theological Studies degree from Grebel, Chris has first-hand appreciation of Grebel’s academic programs. As a student, Chris lived in the College residence, worked as a student custodian, and served as a student leader in multiple capacities. Chris also held jobs with Grebel Student Services as Interim Chaplain and Interim Student Services Assistant as he covered staff leaves, led key activities, recruited students, and facilitated allocations of student scholarships.
“I'm excited to be back at Grebel to build relationships with donors, alumni, and everyone inside the building," shared Chris. “We all know Grebel is a very special place, and any way I can do my part to help keep the community healthy and thriving - sign me up!"
“Chris cares passionately about Grebel,” shared Lori Guenther Reesor, a board member who served on the hiring committee. “He brings energy, enthusiasm, and fundraising experience to the role. He worked as a summer custodian at Grebel for four summers, which honestly to me makes a great calling card when he visits Grebel donors. He's already demonstrated his connection.”
Chris began his fundraising career in 2018 at Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) as Associate Development Officer. In this role, he grew a portfolio of major and mid-level donors, facilitated donor meetings and events, led an internal DEI initiative, and was heavily involved in the MEDAx pitch competition for young entrepreneurs. Most recently, Chris worked as Director of Strategic Accounts at Blue North Strategies, where he directed multiple non-profit accounts and provided leadership in delivering optimal direct marketing and consulting projects.
"For me, fundraising and alumni engagement all starts with relationships," explained Chris about the approach he will take in his work. "I want alumni and supporters to see Grebel as more than just a memory, but as an ongoing presence that shapes students and the wider world every single day. My job is to meaningfully connect them to that impact through facilitating positive relationships."
As someone who cares for his community and the church, Chris also co-founded Pastors in Exile (PiE), a community-based ministry for young adults, where he pastored, raised funds, and led workshops. Chris has volunteered as a board member for Shalom Counselling, been a Mennonite Church Canada National Delegate, served on Mennonite Church Eastern Canada Congregational Ministries Council, and more. In addition to his Waterloo degrees, Chris also attained a Master of Arts in Theology: Spirituality and Psychotherapy from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Chris follows Fred W. Martin who has served Grebel in advancement for 24 years.
